Local Geology Field Trip - Dec 3rd

Hello everyone!

We hope you have a very fulfilling Thanksgiving. While the weather is still beautiful and crisp, we look forward to getting out and having some fun outdoors, while we learn about some fascinating geology!

Our next Geology Field Trip will be on Saturday, December 3rd at 10 am.

Our first stop is a real natural gem, located near the NC Museum of Art. We will be exploring the geology exposed at the Prairie Ridge Ecostation,  45 acres of Piedmont prairie, forest, ponds, a stream and sustainable building features set within a wildlife-friendly landscape. Prairie Ridge furthers the NC Science Museum's mission of enhancing public understanding and appreciation of the natural environment by providing an outdoor learning space while acting as a model for renewable and sustainable energy.

The geologic story of the rock types and their geologic history was deciphered through many years of research by many investigators mapping in the Piedmont of North Carolina and the immediate area surrounding Prairie Ridge. 

To a geologist the rock types present - metamorphic schists and gneisses - help tell the story of how a major portion of North Carolina formed.  The rock that underlie Prairie Ridge record a long and sometimes violent geologic past of over a half billion years of Earth history.  Collectively the rocks of the Raleigh area record the formation of an ancient chain of volcanic islands (called Carolinia by geologists) that were active for millions of years with countless volcanic eruptions that formed piles of volcanic ash and lava flows.  During this same period of volcanic activity, erosion wore down the volcanic areas and deposited layers of sedimentary rocks in the form of mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone.

Following this visit, we will hike and explore the geology of nearby Umstead Park. This will be a chance for everyone to burn off some steam and enjoy a hike lead by Rob Greenberg. Bring a lunch to enjoy! Umstead has a beautiful picnic area.

The cost of the Geology Field Trip is $35.00 per student.  There is no charge to parents/drivers.  Contact us if you would like details about a multiple sibling or scout group discount.

Because, we like to have an accurate 'head count', please let us know as soon as you can, if you will be attending and how many will be in your party : )

You can pay in two ways:  

1) Send your payment to Pay Pal - rgreen08@gmail.com.  - or -

2) Mail a check to

Rob Greenberg
2218 Esther Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Here are some things to know about the trip.

• Wear sturdy shoes 
• Bring water, snacks and a lunch to enjoy at Umstead Park
• Bring sunscreen and bug spray (ticks can be out anytime!)
• If you happen to run late, we can be reached at  919-270-0028.

Please feel free to forward this email to others who you think will be interested.  We would love to grow our list of geology enthusiasts!

We look forward to seeing everyone!


Mary Watson & Rob Greenberg